Applying for Child Support in New Hampshire

Applying for child support in New Hampshire involves a series of steps designed to ensure that your child receives the financial support they need. This blog post explains how to apply for child support in New Hampshire, covering the steps from gathering necessary information and completing the application to attending court hearings and enforcing child support orders. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process:

1. Understand Child Support Basics

Child support is a financial obligation paid by a non-custodial parent to assist with the costs of raising a child. In New Hampshire, the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) handles child support cases.

2. Gather Necessary Information

Before you apply, gather the following information:

Your personal identification (driver’s license, Social Security number)

Your child’s birth certificate

Information about the non-custodial parent (name, address, employer details)

Documentation of your income (pay stubs, tax returns)

Any existing court orders related to child support, custody, or visitation

3. Complete the Application

You can apply for child support online through the New Hampshire Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) website or in person at a local DCSS office. The application will require detailed information about you, your child, and the non-custodial parent.

4. Submit the Application

Submit your completed application online or mail it to the DCSS office. Ensure that all required documents are included to avoid delays.

5. Pay the Application Fee

There may be a small application fee. Check the DCSS website for the most current fee information. Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver based on financial need.

6. Attend the Initial Interview

Once your application is received, you may be required to attend an initial interview with a DCSS caseworker. This interview helps verify the information provided and ensures that all necessary steps are being taken to process your case.

7. Establish Paternity

If paternity has not been established, this is a crucial step in the process. Paternity can be established voluntarily through acknowledgment or through genetic testing ordered by the court.

8. Child Support Calculation

The amount of child support is calculated based on the New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and other relevant factors.

9. Court Hearing

In some cases, a court hearing may be necessary to establish or modify a child support order. Both parents will receive notice of the hearing date, and it is essential to attend and present any relevant information or documentation.

10. Receiving Payments

Once the court issues a child support order, the non-custodial parent will be required to make regular payments. Payments can be made through wage garnishment, direct payments to the DCSS, or other approved methods.

11. Enforcement of Child Support Orders

If the non-custodial parent fails to make payments, the DCSS can take enforcement actions such as wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, suspending licenses, and more.

12. Modify Child Support Orders if Needed

If there is a significant change in circumstances (e.g., changes in income, custody arrangements), either parent can request a modification of the child support order. This request must be made through the court.

Applying for child support in New Hampshire is a structured process designed to ensure that children receive the financial support they need. You are able to effectively use the system and get your child the support they deserve if you comprehend and adhere to these guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Applying for Child Support in New Hampshire

1. Who can apply for child support?

Any parent or legal guardian responsible for a child can apply for child support.

2. How do I apply for child support?

You can apply online or in person at a local DCSS office. Complete the application and submit the required documents.

3. Is there a fee to apply?

There may be a small application fee, but fee waivers are available for those who qualify based on financial need.

4. How is child support calculated?

Child support is calculated using the New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes and other relevant factors.

5. What if the non-custodial parent does not pay?

The DCSS can enforce child support orders through wage garnishment, tax refund interception, license suspension, and other methods.